Friends of the Grand
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FRIENDS OF THE GRAND
Est. 1973
The Friends of the Grand is a 3,000+ strong group of people who support the beautiful Grand Theatre and its eclectic programme.
Formed in 1973 to save the building from demolition, the first Friends were literally ‘hands-on’. They painted the dressing rooms, repaired holes to the ceiling and helped to get the theatre into shape.
Funds were raised in many ways, including Midnight Matinées; all part of the bid to save the theatre. Early Friends included such names as Violet Carson (Ena Sharples), Alistair Cooke, Ken Dodd, Leslie Crowther, Tim West and Prunella Scales, Billy Pearce and Johnnie Casson.
The role of the Friends of the Grand has changed over the years; nowadays Friends support the theatre in different ways. They raise funds from subscriptions and social events to finance projects within the theatre, primarily aimed at enhancing the comfort of our patrons. Over the last twenty years the Friends have contributed in excess of £700,000 towards projects including the provision of new carpets, seating and technical equipment. By Autumn 2007, the Friends have contributed almost £250,000 to the Sam Lee Appeal to improve theatergoer amenities and renovate the interior of the Theatre to its near original splendour.
Friends are also the Founding Angel of the National Theatre of Variety.
Another way we help is via our volunteer teams – Front of House teams sell programmes and orange juice and, more importantly, extend a warm welcome to our patrons. Mailing Team volunteers assist by stuffing envelopes with publicity material and often enjoy a morning coffee and drizzle cake during the process! As well as saving the theatre a great deal of money, belonging to a team gives our members the opportunity to meet like-minded Friends and theatre buffs.
BECOME A VOLUNTEER
Another way we help is via our volunteer teams – Front of House teams sell programmes and, more importantly, extend a warm welcome to our patrons. As well as saving the theatre a great deal of money, belonging to a team gives our members the opportunity to meet like-minded Friends and theatre buffs.
FORTHCOMING EVENTS
Benefits to Friends include receiving generous concessions to many attractions, informative newsletters, meet the cast nights, opportunity to book the best seats at the commencement of each new season, and special Friends’ Nights.
